From timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and its prevalence is on the rise. As per World Health Organisation’s data, in India alone, there are a staggering 77 million adults with type 2 diabetes, and an additional 25 million at risk of developing the condition. But what exactly is diabetes, and how does it impact your life? Diabetes, often referred to as diabetes mellitus, is a group of metabolic diseases characterised by high blood sugar levels over an extended period. This occurs because the body either doesn't produce enough insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar) or doesn't use it effectively. There are several types of diabetes, with type 2 diabetes being the most common. It's essential to be aware of diabetes symptoms and understand how they can affect your life.
Increased thirst and frequent urination
When you have diabetes, your body's inability to regulate blood sugar leads to elevated glucose levels in your bloodstream. To combat this, your kidneys work harder to filter out the excess sugar. This increased filtration process results in higher urine production, causing you to feel the need to urinate frequently. You might find yourself waking up multiple times during the night to use the bathroom, which can disrupt your sleep and lead to fatigue.
Unexplained weight loss
People with diabetes may experience unexplained weight loss, which can be concerning. This weight loss occurs because your body can't effectively use the sugar in your bloodstream for energy. To compensate, it starts breaking down fat and muscle for fuel, leading to a drop in your overall body weight. This can be a gradual but persistent change that shouldn't be ignored.
Fatigue and weakness
High blood sugar levels can result in persistent fatigue and weakness. When sugar can't enter your cells to be converted into energy, you're left feeling drained. This can impact your daily life, making it difficult to stay focused, productive, and alert. It might also lead to mood swings and irritability, affecting your relationships and overall well-being.
Blurred vision
Elevated blood sugar levels can temporarily affect the lenses in your eyes, leading to blurred vision. This condition is known as diabetic retinopathy. It's crucial to manage your blood sugar effectively to prevent this symptom from becoming a long-term issue. Regular eye check-ups with an ophthalmologist can help catch any problems early and ensure your eyes remain healthy.
Slow wound healing
Diabetes can slow down your body's natural healing process. Even minor cuts, wounds, or sores may take longer to heal, increasing the risk of infection. This is due to reduced blood flow and nerve damage, both of which are common in diabetes. Proper wound care, including cleaning and dressing, is essential to prevent complications and infections.
Numbness and tingling in hands and feet
Diabetic neuropathy, a complication of diabetes, can lead to numbness and tingling in your hands and feet. It occurs due to nerve damage caused by prolonged exposure to high blood sugar levels. This symptom not only affects your daily life but also increases the risk of injuries, as you may have difficulty feeling changes in temperature or pressure. Regular foot care and check-ups are important for managing this aspect of diabetes.
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